Influenza Information

1.Cover nose/mouth when sneezing/coughing 2.Bin used tissues 3.Wash your hands The University of Limerick is working in line with current HSE public health guidelines in combating the spread of Influenza A(H1N1). The University has a comprehensive plan in place to respond to the potential threat from Influenza A(H1N1)v/Swine Flu to students and staff. The UL Influenza Pandemic Working Group, which includes senior staff and experts from across the University, are implementing a strategy to mitigate the impact of Influenza A(H1N1)v.

The following information has been advised to staff and students on the symptoms of Influenza A(H1N1)v and current HSE precautionary advice.

What is Swine Flu? Swine Flu is a respiratory disease, caused by influenza type A which infects pigs. There are many types and the infection is constantly changing. Until now it has not normally infected humans, but the latest form clearly does, and can be spread from person to person - probably through coughing and sneezing.

What are the symptoms of swine flu? The symptoms of swine flu will be similar to ordinary influenza: sudden onset of cough or fever (>38°C). Other symptoms include:

Sore throat

Headache

Chills

Aching muscles

Difficulty breathing

Tiredness

HSE Medical Advice:

If you think you have the flu, please avoid close contact with others, inform your manager and seek medical advice by phoning your doctor or the 24 Hour HSE Flu Information Line (Freephone 1800 94 11 00). In addition, you should prevent the spread of infection by:

Always cover your nose and mouth with clean tissues when coughing or sneezing

Always dispose of used tissues into a bin immediately

Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water or alcohol based hand cleaners(>60%Alcohol)

A "pandemic" means that an influenza virus, new to humans, has appeared, is spreading and causing disease in many parts of the world. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has determined that the current phase of pandemic is Phase 6, Irish Alert Level 3. (Extract from the National Pandemic Influenza Plan).